Frequently Asked Questions
do you accept insurance?
Yes, I currently accept most Highmark and UPMC commercial plans. Unfortunately, I do not take any medicare or medicaid insurance plans for example UPMC for You.
What Questions should I ask my insurance company?
Before making an appointment, you should contact your insurance company and ask them some questions so that you are aware of your coverage. I encourage all of my clients to also check their coverage at the beginning of the year since many plans change. Call the number on the back of your insurance card and the following questions should help get you started.
Do I have coverage for Outpatient Mental Health?
Do I owe a copay or deductible and how much is due at the time of the appointment?
Does my plan have any limits such as the number of sessions in a year I am allowed to have?
Is Empowered by Counseling, LLC or the provider Leann Romitti, LPC considered an in-network provider with my plan?
How long does a therapy session last?
Each session is about 55 minutes long. The last 5 minutes is dedicated to planning for the next session. If a client would like a shorter or longer session, that must be discussed with the therapist before and is dependent on insurance and scheduling.
How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
Developing a relationship with a therapist is the most important factor for effective treatment. Studies have shown that this is more effective than a therapist’s education, training background, and number of years of experience. You should feel comfortable with the person sitting across from you, without feeling judged or like you must hold anything back. The right therapist will make you feel right at home, understand your needs and where you are coming from, and is someone you are able to put your trust in. It is important to read and research about your therapist so that you get an idea of the person you will be telling the most intimate details of your life.
Do sessions have to be in person?
No, they do not need to be in person. Since pandemic has changed the way we work and live my practice has evolved as well. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. Releases must be signed for either modality of therapy.
Do I need to book a minimum number of sessions?
Not at all. I usually recommend that when first starting therapy that a client comes in for weekly or biweekly sessions, so that relationship building and treatment progress can begin as soon as possible. I know that my clients want relief and they don’t want to wait any longer. As a client progresses they are able to attend therapy less and even once a month for booster sessions as needed.
What can I expect from our first session?
Your first appointment is all about getting to know one another and making sure that we can build a relationship. All of the forms are filled out through our client portal, so you can come in and grab some coffee or tea and relax. I will come and bring you back to my office. There, we will talk about what is going on and how you want things to change. My approach is laid back but effectively direct. At the end of the session, we will decide together how often you should come to accomplish your goals. We can schedule if you are ready or if you feel we are not a great fit I am more than happy to give you referrals for other therapists in the area. The goal is to help you fulfill your needs.
What kind of clients do you work with?
I work with individuals age 17 and up. I focus on women’s mental health and have specialized in working with the LGBT community, individuals who have been impacted by trauma, anxiety, self esteem and body image, life transitions, daily life stressors and challenges, physical wellness, as well as individuals who work in the helping profession such as counselors, nurses, and, social workers. You can read more about my work on my clients services page. I do work with those affected by addiction however, you must also have a clean time of at least 6 months, engage in outside supports from therapy such as AA, NA, GA, or OEA, and your treatment is focused on another mental health issue. This is to ensure your readiness to change underlying issues of addiction and not just the addiction itself.
Do you have evening hours?
Yes, I have daytime and evening hours. There are times when evenings are full and I do not have the ability to accommodate everyone. Please check in with me before committing to treatment. I understand that people work and therapy is something that should be accessible. *At this time there is limited evening spots open.
What are services that you do not offer?
Currently, I do not provide counseling for the purpose of :
Letters for medication management of addiction
Letters for therapy and supportive animals
Fulfilling legal requirements or court orders
Custody issues
Prescribe medication. Please reach out to your PCP for a referral for medication from a psychiatrist